Today we’d like to introduce you to David Parnell.
Hi David, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started my classic Volkswagen business 10 years ago. I have had a passion for classic Volkswagens my whole life and it was always my dream to create a business centered around selling classic VW’s. I created an online (by appointment only) dealership. When I first started I would travel all over the Westcoast and sometimes beyond looking for good quality Volkswagens. I would then recondition them and then market them all over the world. Word came fast through my marketing and advertising strategies and I started to build a reputation as the Volkswagen guy. Folks from all over now call and ask me if I am either interested in buying their vehicles or if I would consign it for them.
Four years ago I bought a legacy VW repair shop here in Bend that has been here since 1973. The original owners asked me if I was interested. I knew that there was a major need to retain the shop and continue to service these Classic Volkswagens. We have long term customers that have had their cars serviced here for years as well as new customers that have just moved here that want their Classic Volkswagens repaired. I have integrated my sales end of the business with the service department. The goal is to continue serving my VW community as well as others across the globe.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Like a lot of start up businesses there has been some bumps and bruises along the way. Employees coming and going. Trying to find the right fit as in this business trying to find the right mechanic is a bit of a challenge. Especially when it comes to servicing these classic cars. But I keep pressing forward with a positive attitude and have faith that it will smooth out over time. But there are also a lot of great times that out weigh the struggles for sure!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I have been in Sales for over 30 years. I have a very diverse experience in various sales environments. Before I moved back to Bend I was head of operations for a major family owned dealership in Seattle Washington for 10 years. I managed 12 stores. My job was marketing and advertising as well as managing their inventory. I took that experience with me back to Bend and implement it in my business today. I specialize in Automotive marketing and sales. I am known for my expertise in classic VW’s as well as my sales talent. I am very proud that I have taken my passion and created a business out of it. I love my customers. They are like family to me. I believe that what sets me apart from others (respectfully) is my work drive. I refuse to give up even when things get tough. My philosophy in life is to continue to learn from my mistakes and grow from them. Growth hurts sometimes. Just like growing pains. But if you can twist it into a positive, the sky is the limits!
How do you think about happiness?
Serving my customers makes me very happy. At one point in my life i was a community pastor for a church. I have always been passionate about serving my community. The fact that I get to do it for a living is awesome. My pets are also a huge part of my happiness. Both of my dogs come with me to work everyday and they love greeting the customers.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.parnellautowerks.com
- Instagram: @parnellautowerks
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Autowerks24
